Paraguay is well and truly off the gringo trail, but has much to offer for those who like to get off the beaten track.
Around 60% of the country is covered by the wild northern Chaco region, which forms part of the largest dry forest area in South America. The Chaco is home to an astonishing number of bird and mammal species, many endemic, and also supports the remaining indigenous groups of the region.
The Rio Paraguay runs north to south through the centre of the country- take a river cruise to the Chaco and Pantanal regions on one of the grand old vessels that ply the calm waters.
The Jesuit Missions in the northern part of the country provide a fascinating glimpse into Paraguay’s past, while the Mennonite communities of Filadelfia and its surrounding townships are a more modern example of the country’s religious diversity.
The spectacular Cerro Cora National Park is the largest protected region in the country; as well as magnificent natural beauty, the park is also home to ancient rock paintings dated between 1300 and 800BC.
